Duterte's legal team seeks ICC interim release

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's legal team has renewed their request to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his interim release ahead of the confirmation hearing scheduled for September 23.

In a filing dated August 19, lead defense counsel Nicholas Kaufman argued that Duterte’s presence at the proceedings could be waived or facilitated through videoconferencing and that conditions can be monitored without an ad hoc cooperation agreement.

The legal team cited a 'final report' suggesting Duterte cannot hide from the law, obstruct investigations, or commit further crimes, thereby negating any risk justifying his continued detention.

Victims and the prosecution have previously opposed similar requests by Duterte's defense team, arguing that delays would be prejudicial to the case.

ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan disclosed in a March 6 document that he had once provided pro bono legal services for Filipino drug war victims, which led Duterte’s lawyers to request his disqualification from the case.

The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I has yet to decide on Duterte's interim release, with the former president citing humanitarian grounds due to his age in a previous motion.